Aston Villa have joined Newcastle in the race for
Andy Carroll, after opening talks with Liverpool over a cut price deal.

Andy Carroll’s future at Liverpool looks increasingly uncertain as more and more clubs express interest in taking him (Picture: Getty)

New Reds boss Brendan Rodgers has told flop forward Carroll he is free to find himself a new club this summer, but Liverpool are refusing to rush into a deal, and have already turned down attempts from Newcastle and West Ham to bag the England international on loan.

The duo have been told to come back with cash offers of at least £20 million, and while that figure has scared off West Ham, Newcastle remain around the negotiating table, and believe patience will eventually see Liverpool accept their loan with an option to buy proposal.

However, the Magpies are now likely to face strong competition from Aston Villa, after chairman Randy Lerner promised Paul Lambert funds to try and bring the 23-year-old to the Midlands.

Metro understands that Villa opened talks with Liverpool over a deal last night, and while they too only want Carroll on loan initially, they would be prepared to put together a financial package worth the requested £20 million.

The only stumbling block appears to be Carroll’s desire to return to the North East, with reports now emerging that the bulky frontman has already told friends he will do all he can to seal a return to first club Newcastle this summer.

It’s a statement that was expected from Carroll’s camp, but speaking earlier this week, Villa boss Lambert refused to be negative in their attempts to land the player, even though he knows it will be difficult:

‘If we could get him it would be great,’ Lambert told the local media.

‘He’s a top player, there’s no doubt. It wouldn’t be one I would dismiss if we could get him.’

The Villa confidence comes because chairman Lerner has promised £15 million to try and conclude a deal, while Liverpool still owe money on their transfer of Stewart Downing last summer, but that could be written off if Carroll is allowed to head to Villa Park.

Carroll is expected to decide on his future when he returns from holiday next week.